Ascension Parish Council - August 20, 2026

The Ascension Parish Council meeting on August 20, 2026, included significant procurement and budget discussions focused on the West Ascension Parish Hospital's fiscal year 2027 operating and capital budgets. Public concerns were raised regarding audit findings that identified financial control weaknesses, public bid law violations, and questionable expenditures including unauthorized bonuses and property acquisition discrepancies. The hospital CEO and CFO presented the budget, highlighting improvements and new services, but council members expressed the need for greater financial accountability and transparency. After debate, the council voted to defer approval of the budgets until September 19, 2026, while approving the operating budget through September 30, with the expectation of monthly progress reports on audit resolution. Additionally, the council approved a resolution to establish an advisory committee to review the Ascension Parish Unified Land Development Code and Master Plan, with amendments specifying committee membership and reporting procedures. Several ordinances related to property acquisition and servitude revocations were also approved. The meeting concluded with authorization for additional expenditures as discussed in executive session.